I grew up in a family that stressed a strong work ethic, and a respect for human dignity. My grandfather taught me from an early age that there is no shame in honest work. I supported myself throughout my schooling, working as a construction laborer, a grocery clerk, a seafood cannery worker, and a deckhand on a fishing boat. I am convinced that this experience has helped me more than any formal education in effectively representing my clients.
After completing law school, I immediately entered into solo practice, knowing that I wanted to represent working people. After a year in Portland, Oregon, I took an associate position in a law office in Astoria that helped families on the Coast. Within five years, I became a partner, and now am the sole share holder of my firm.
After about twenty years in practice, I continue to focus my efforts on helping injured and disabled workers, wrongful death claims, personal injury, and Social Security Disability claims. My experience is diverse, from trying and litigating several cases to verdict in state and federal courts, to arguing appeals before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the Oregon Supreme Court. I enjoy working with clients to achieve justice, and to help them move forward from an injury or tragic loss.